Environmental groups want Governor Rick Snyderto say “no” to legislation on his desk. They’re concerned about bills that would change some oversight requirements for state mines.
Sean Hammond is with the Michigan Environmental Council. He says they’re especially worried about a billthat would let mines amend their permits without a public hearing. Instead, the mine would just have to give written notification to the Department of Environmental Quality.
Hammond says the mines need to be accountable to the public.
“These are world class streams, world class forests that everyone in Michigan and people outside of Michigan can enjoy.”
But advocates say they’re not hurting the environment. They say the bills are meant to simplify the permit process – but there is still plenty of oversight.
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—Cheyna Roth is a reporter for the Michigan Public Radio network. Contact WEMU News at734.487.3363 or email us at studio@wemu.org
